The Sokoto State government has been praised by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for its strategic focus on health and nutrition within its budget, setting a benchmark for enhancing the well-being of mothers and children.
During a formal meeting with Deputy Governor Alhaji Idris Muhammad Gobir, UNICEF’s Nigeria country representative, Ms. Wafa Saeed, expressed strong approval of the state’s increased investment in healthcare.
She highlighted the government’s plan to boost health sector funding from 6.5% to 10% between 2024 and 2025, alongside allocating N500 million specifically for nutrition programs-a commitment UNICEF has agreed to match through its Child Nutrition Fund.
“This level of dedication to health financing is truly admirable. It reflects a genuine concern for the welfare of mothers, children, and vulnerable groups,” Saeed remarked, emphasizing the critical role of nutrition and immunization during the first 24 months of life, a period when approximately 75% of brain growth takes place.
She further pointed out that immunization combats six out of the top ten causes of child mortality, highlighting its essential contribution to securing healthier futures for young children.
In collaboration with the Sokoto State government, UNICEF revealed plans to register 250,000 impoverished and at-risk individuals into the state’s social protection database under the EU-SUSEE initiative.
Additionally, the organization launched free healthcare services targeting 15,000 beneficiaries, working closely with the state’s Ministry of Health and the Sokoto State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (SOCHEMA).
To enhance these efforts, UNICEF provided vital resources including 200 tablets, 200 power banks, three laptops, and thousands of “Mamakits” designed to support safe deliveries and immunization drives.
Ms. Saeed also praised facilities such as the state’s neonatal care unit for their use of solar energy, access to clean water, and committed healthcare personnel, describing these as models of sustainable and effective healthcare provision.
Deputy Governor Alhaji Idris Gobir, accepting the donations on behalf of Governor Ahmed Aliyu, expressed gratitude for UNICEF’s ongoing support and reaffirmed Sokoto’s commitment to continued partnership.
He underscored that healthcare commands the largest share of the state’s budget for 2024 and 2025, reflecting the administration’s resolve to expand services to all communities, with a focus on the most vulnerable populations.
Gobir also noted that the collaboration with UNICEF will play a pivotal role in combating malnutrition throughout Sokoto State.
“A robust and healthy population is fundamental to community progress. We remain dedicated to working alongside UNICEF to advance healthcare, nutrition, and education across Sokoto,” he concluded.
